A severe allergic reaction to penicillin left Jaina Mistry fighting for her life, needing to have part of a lung removed and causing her to go blind.

But now, 12 years on, she has battled back and overcome the adversity that would have defeated most people – by becoming a qualified therapist and is planning to train as a fitness instructor.

Jaina, from Thurmaston, developed a high fever, bloodshot eyes and her skin began to blister within hours of being prescribed penicillin, when aged 17.

She spent 10 days in intensive care at Leicester Royal Infirmary and lost 60 per cent of her skin, toe and fingernails.

She had to have part of her left lung removed as it was so damaged and, within a year, lost her eyesight.

Jaina, now 29, said: "It has taken a lot of self determination but, luckily, I had a strong circle of friends and family.

"The illness did flip my world upside down but I was left with a choice.

"Drown in self pity or go ahead and accept what is. I chose to accept my situation and to move forward."

When she finally felt strong enough to go back to education, Jaina went to the RNIB College, in Loughborough, and went on to the University of Derby, where she gained a 2:1 degree in complementary therapies.

However, alongside academic achievement, Jaina was struggling with her health, often feeling tired and breathless because of the state of her lungs.

Her physiotherapist at Glenfield Hospital, Nicola Mills, suggested she join a gym to see if it helped.

That was two-and-a-half years ago and Jaina has just won a national award for her achievement in turning her life around through exercise.

She said: "It was difficult. Finding the right trainer was not easy but after being rejected by quite a few, Alex Cullen at AC Fitness, in Thurmaston, said he would help.

"The first couple of months of training felt awful. I complained, moaned and whinged but I was determined to stick to a goal of losing a couple of pounds in time for a wedding.

"I did and it encouraged me and I realised I was feeling less tired and breathless and fitness is now an integral part of my life. I have changed from hating, to tolerating to loving it."

In December, Jaina won a 'member's achievement' award. It was that award, which has prompted her to plan a new career. She said: "It felt like a true honour to have won. I am thinking of training as a fitness instructor."

Her physion, Nicola Mills, said: "Jaina is a remarkable young lady. Her determination and hard work is a great example to us."